Planning a Vermont Destination Wedding: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Seasonal Charm

Imagine Saying “I Do” Amidst Vermont’s Stunning Backdrops

From rolling green hills to the vibrant canvas of autumn leaves, Vermont sets the stage for romance in every season—although spring and winter might require a bit of extra planning. But there’s more to a destination wedding here than just breathtaking views. The weather plays a key role in the planning process.

Summer Weddings in New England

Summers in Vermont bring warmth, with temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit—ideal for an outdoor ceremony by the lake. Most summer weddings are tented, and you can choose from existing wedding venues or find a unique location of your own.

I’ve captured many weddings on family-owned land, whether it’s a camp on Lake Champlain or a hilltop plot in the middle of nowhere. If that sounds daunting, it can be, but hiring a planner for a backyard wedding is a must. One crucial aspect to consider is nearby accommodation. If you have 100 guests attending a wedding off the beaten path, having them drive long distances at midnight isn’t ideal. Ensure there are sufficient hotels or Airbnbs nearby and budget for a shuttle bus.

For those seeking air-conditioned venues, ski resorts are the main option. We’ve filmed at all of them, and most can accommodate more guests than a tent, offering plenty of rooms either at the resort or in the surrounding area. A wedding at Killington in the summer is always fun, with outdoor activities like mountain biking and swimming just steps away.

Winter Weddings in Vermont

Winter transforms Vermont into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cozy, rustic weddings with a crackling fireplace. However, options are somewhat limited. An elopement is one idea—I’ve captured winter elopements that are intimate and can be held any day of the week at various accommodations.

Ski resorts are another option. They’re fun, allowing you to hit the slopes and stay indoors if the weather turns sketchy. Winter weddings in Vermont are usually smaller, even at larger resorts like Stratton or Killington. Keep in mind that winter is the resorts’ busiest season, so room rates are higher and often booked up.

For smaller weddings, there are plenty of non-ski resort venues that can accommodate your entire wedding party on-site and are close to larger towns. Mountain Top Inn is one such venue, where I’ve filmed both elopements and medium-sized winter weddings.

Fall Weddings in Vermont

Fall offers a stunning display of fiery reds and oranges, creating a romantic atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. While I don’t know the exact math, fall accounts for about 40% of the weddings in Vermont, if not more.

September is the best month for weather—it’s typically dry and cool. Early October brings peak foliage, usually between October 1-15, though this can vary. If you know where you want to get married, check out Instagram posts from the previous year around the same time to get a feel for the setting.

Almost every venue in Vermont is ready to host a fall wedding. However, be prepared to compete with leaf peepers for accommodations, so expect to spend a bit more. Jay Peak is probably my favorite spot for autumn colors.

Spring Weddings in Vermont

Spring breathes new life into the mountains, creating a scene straight out of a storybook with blooming flowers and trickling streams. However, it’s known as “mud season” for a reason—it can get messy, especially in the hills. Also, if it’s spring where you are, it’s often still winter in Vermont. I’ve seen it snow in May (for about 20 minutes). If you hold your wedding at a resort, these challenges are less of an issue.

Be Flexible

Logistics are another consideration. Vermont may be a small state, but it’s full of vibrant towns and picturesque villages, each offering unique wedding venues. In Burlington, you’ll find lakeside inns and upscale hotels that cater to large parties. In Stowe or Woodstock, you’re greeted with historic barns and charming bed-and-breakfasts—perfect for intimate gatherings.

While it might be challenging to check all the boxes like you can in more populated areas, choosing Vermont for your wedding means you’re ready for a more relaxed and intimate vibe.